Embrace Autumn Flavours with This Warm, Spicy Snack

Welcome to another delicious recipe from African Food Box! As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, we're adding a seasonal twist to one of our favourite snacks. Introducing Pumpkin Spiced Puff Puff – a fusion of traditional African street food and the cosy flavours of autumn. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a festive gathering, this recipe will bring the warmth of African cuisine to your home with a delightful pumpkin twist.

Recipe Tips:

• The dough should be sticky and bubbly. For less mess, use an oiled ice cream scoop for portioning.
• Keep your mixing bowl close to the frying area for convenience.

Preparation Time: About 25 mins Proofing Time: 1 hour Yield: 20 Pumpkin Spiced Puff Puff Balls

Ingredients:

• 300g Plain Flour
• 100g Pumpkin Puree
• 65g Granulated Sugar
• 1.5g Nutmeg, ground
• 1g Ginger Powder
• 1.5g Cinnamon, ground
• 5g Salt
• 5g Fast-action Yeast
• 200ml Lukewarm Water
• Oil, for frying
• Topping: Cinnamon Sugar (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Yeast Mixture:

• In a small bowl, dissolve a teaspoon of sugar and the yeast in lukewarm water (ensure it's around 26°C for optimal yeast activation). Stir gently and leave it aside for 10 minutes to activate.

2. Mixing the Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, ground nutmeg, ginger powder, cinnamon, and salt.
• Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it along with the pumpkin puree to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, sticky batter forms.
• Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or cling film. Let it sit in a warm area for 1 hour to allow the batter to proof and become bubbly.

3. Frying the Puff Puff:

• Heat oil in a deep frying pan to about 180°C. If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dipping a wooden skewer into it; if it bubbles steadily, it's ready.
• Lightly oil your hands and scoop the batter with your palm. Gently squeeze making a fist, allowing the dough to drop into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Fry each side for approximately 2 minutes or until golden brown.
• Remove and place on a kitchen towel to drain excess oil. You can test for doneness by inserting a skewer into a puff puff; if it comes out clean, they are ready.

4. Serving:

• Toss the hot puff puffs in cinnamon sugar for an extra flavour kick or enjoy them as is.

Reheating and Storage:

• To reheat, microwave for 45 seconds for a soft texture or warm in an oven at 180°C for 10 minutes for a crispier exterior.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Embrace the flavours of autumn with our Pumpkin Spiced Puff Puff – a delightful treat that's sure to please. For more innovative African recipes and culinary inspirations, keep following African Food Box. Remember, every dish tells a story, and we're here to help you explore the rich tapestry of African cuisine. Visit our shop for more ingredients and African food delights!